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In-Depth Characterization of Black Soldier Fly Larvae Reared on Phenolic-Rich Agro-Industrial Substrates
Claudiu-Nicusor Ionica1, Katalin Szabo2, Bernadette-Emőke Teleky2
1Department of Animal Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Manaștur, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
Insects
|March 28, 2026
Summary
Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) fed agricultural by-products gain enhanced nutritional and antioxidant properties. Optimizing substrate choice and inclusion levels is crucial for producing safe, enriched BSFL for animal feed.
Area of Science:
- Insect farming
- Sustainable agriculture
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) offer a sustainable protein source for animal feed.
- Valorizing agricultural by-products is key to efficient insect farming.
Purpose of the Study:
- To enrich BSFL with bioactive phenolic compounds using agricultural by-products.
- To evaluate the nutritional, functional, and safety characteristics of enriched BSFL.
Main Methods:
- Larvae were reared on diets with varying levels of apple, potato, and beetroot peels.
- Proximate analysis, colorimetric measurements, antioxidant capacity assays (CUPRAC, ABTS, DPPH), rheological analysis, and mycotoxin testing were performed.
Main Results:
- Substrate type and inclusion level significantly affected larval composition and functional properties.
- Phenolic-rich diets enhanced antioxidant capacity and influenced larval pigmentation.
- Rheological analysis indicated improved technological quality, but mycotoxin levels varied.
Conclusions:
- Agricultural by-products can produce BSFL enriched with beneficial compounds.
- Careful optimization of substrate and inclusion levels is necessary for safety and desired properties.
- Enriched BSFL show potential for enhanced animal feed applications.
